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Vikings rout Giants to clinch playoff berth

‘We know there’s a lot on the line but we have to face this game as if it’s just another game’

Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson breaks clear of the New York Giants defence at TCF Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. Photograph: Hannah Foslien/Getty Images
Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson breaks clear of the New York Giants defence at TCF Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. Photograph: Hannah Foslien/Getty Images
Mon Dec 28 2015 - 13:37

The Minnesota Vikings clinched their first playoff berth since 2012 on Sunday and set up an NFC North division title game next week following a blowout win over the New York Giants.

The Vikings dominated from start to finish in a 49-17 romp over the Giants that set up a celebration at US Bank Stadium.

Minnesota (10-5) is now tied with Green Bay (10-5) atop the NFC North and will face the Packers in a season finale next Sunday that will decide the division.

"We knew what this game meant. We've put ourselves in position to take the title next week," said Minnesota running back Adrian Peterson who finished the game with 104 rushing yards and a score.

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“It would mean a lot (to win the division).”

The Vikings have not captured the division since 2009 and are looking to end a five-year reign by the Packers.

Minnesota fell to Green Bay 30-13 in a Week 11 matchup but enter the finale as a confident group while the Packers seem to be searching to find offensive rhythm.

"We know there's a lot on the line but we have to face this game as if it's just another game," said Vikings quarterback Teddy Bridgewater.

“We’re looking forward to it.”